Comparison of elastomeric impression materials' thixotropic behavior

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Elastomeric impression materials are crucial for dental restorations.
• Their flow characteristics significantly influence clinical success and material selection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the thixotropic behavior of elastomeric impression materials.
• To compare the flow characteristics of seven different materials using the shark fin test.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the shark fin test to evaluate flow.
• Tested seven distinct elastomeric impression materials, including polyvinylsiloxane and vinylsiloxanether types.

Main Results:

• One polyvinylsiloxane exhibited the highest shark fin height.
• A novel vinylsiloxanether material showed comparable flow to some polyvinylsiloxanes.
• One polyvinylsiloxane demonstrated significantly lower flow than all other tested materials.

Conclusions:

• Flow characteristics of most tested elastomeric impression materials are clinically acceptable.
• Material selection should consider specific flow properties based on clinical needs.